5-Day Morocco Desert Tour: From Fes to Marrakech via the Sahara
Tour Summary:
Embark on a five-day journey through Morocco’s cultural heart and natural wonders — from the ancient alleyways of Fes to the golden dunes of Merzouga, the deep gorges of Todra, and the High Atlas Mountains. This route offers the perfect blend of historical sites, authentic Berber encounters, and breathtaking desert landscapes.
Day 1: Fes – Ifrane – Midelt – Ziz Valley – Merzouga Desert
Leave the medieval charm of Fes behind and begin your journey south toward the Sahara. The first stop is Ifrane, known as the “Switzerland of Morocco” for its alpine architecture and cleanliness. Continue through the cedar forests of Azrou, where you may spot wild Barbary apes, and reach Midelt for a lunch break. Cross the Tizi n’Talghamt Pass and enjoy panoramic views of the Ziz Valley before arriving in Merzouga, at the edge of the Erg Chebbi dunes.
In the late afternoon, swap your vehicle for a camel and trek into the Sahara just in time for sunset. Arrive at your luxury desert camp and enjoy a traditional dinner under the stars, followed by Berber drumming around the fire.
Included Experiences:
- Scenic drive through Middle Atlas Mountains
- Camel trek through Erg Chebbi dunes
- Sunset over the Sahara
- Night in a luxury desert camp with traditional dinner and music
Day 2: Merzouga – Rissani – Erfoud – Todra Gorge – Dades Valley
After sunrise and breakfast in the desert, begin your drive toward the Dades Valley. Stop first in Rissani, known for its traditional market and connection to Morocco’s royal dynasty. Then visit Erfoud, famous for its fossil workshops.
Continue to the dramatic Todra Gorge, where limestone cliffs rise over 300 meters, forming a narrow canyon that attracts rock climbers and photographers alike. Walk through the gorge and take in the cool air before heading to the Dades Valley, known for its impressive rock formations and fortified kasbahs.
Included Experiences:
- Visit local market in Rissani
- Walk through the Todra Gorge
- Dinner and overnight in a kasbah-style guesthouse in the Dades Valley
Day 3: Dades Valley – Rose Valley – Skoura – Ouarzazate
After breakfast, explore the rugged landscapes of the Dades Valley, traveling along the famous Road of a Thousand Kasbahs. Pass through the Rose Valley, where locals produce rose water and essential oils in spring.
Stop in Skoura Oasis, dotted with kasbahs and palm trees, then continue to Ouarzazate, the film capital of Morocco. Visit the iconic Taourirt Kasbah or take an optional studio tour to see where scenes from Gladiator and Game of Thrones were filmed.
Included Experiences:
- Road of a Thousand Kasbahs
- Visit Rose Valley and local cooperatives
- Optional visit to Atlas Studios or Taourirt Kasbah
- Overnight stay in a boutique riad in Ouarzazate
Day 4: Ouarzazate – Ait Ben Haddou – High Atlas – Marrakech
After breakfast, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ait Ben Haddou — a fortified ksar that’s one of Morocco’s most iconic landmarks. Explore its ancient clay houses, then begin the climb through the High Atlas Mountains via the scenic Tizi n’Tichka Pass.
Stop for panoramic views and Berber villages along the way before arriving in Marrakech in the late afternoon. Settle into your riad and enjoy a relaxing evening in the Red City.
Included Experiences:
- Guided visit to Ait Ben Haddou
- Cross the High Atlas Mountains
- Arrival in Marrakech and evening at leisure
Day 5: Marrakech – Guided City Tour & Departure
Spend your final day exploring the vibrant streets and historic sites of Marrakech. A local guide will take you through the medina’s labyrinth of souks, past colorful spice stalls and artisan workshops. Visit the Bahia Palace, the Koutoubia Mosque (from outside), and the serene Majorelle Garden.
End your tour at Jemaa el-Fnaa square — alive with storytellers, musicians, and street food vendors — or head to the airport depending on your departure schedule.
Included Experiences:
- Half-day guided city tour of Marrakech
- Visit Bahia Palace and Majorelle Garden
- End of tour (drop-off at airport or accommodation)
What’s Included:
- Private transport in comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle
- 4 nights of accommodation (desert camp, kasbah hotels, riads)
- Daily breakfasts and selected dinners
- Camel trek and desert camp experience
- Local guides in Marrakech and Ait Ben Haddou
- All monument entrance fees